Silent and Gradual Censorship
“The boiling frog story is a widespread anecdote describing a frog slowly being boiled alive. The premise is that if a frog is placed in boiling water, it will jump out, but if it is placed in cold water that is slowly heated, it will not perceive the danger and will be cooked to death. The story is often used as a metaphor for the inability of people to react to significant changes that occur gradually.”
A similar phenomenon happened at the Villagio’s Virgin Megastore.
When it opened 3 years ago in Doha, the Virgin Megastore displayed a considerable amount of books in English, Arabic and even in French languages. It was quite a welcome addition to the almost desertic Doha’s bookshelves.
Gradually, after some time, the shop started to reshuffle its stock frequently. All that was apparently the usual marketing approach, to recall the customer’s attention to the products brought to the front.
normal think to do in a shop like this one.
What was less notable, particularly at the beginning, was the gradual and successive shrinkage of the space allocated to the book section.
When it became obvious, it was interpreted as if the shop was doing very well in selling faster than they could replace their stock.
Yesterday, I returned to the shop and this time, it was to obvious that for some reason, Virgin Megastore had reduced their book section to a tiny corner, displaying essentially promotion books about Qatar, a few travel guides, some selected politicians biographies and some shelves with publications in Arabic.
Where the book section used to be, has given place now to a big surface of toys, gadgets and t-shirts.
It was obvious that something unusual was going on in this shop, as this visible dramatic reduction of books and its replacement by toys is in no way representative of Virgin Megastore.
One possibility that occurred to me was that maybe in Doha not many people read and many more play, and Virgin Megastore is strategically reshaping itself to the local business trends.
Because I do feel that this change is a great loss for Doha. I decided to enquiry about it. To my sadness, I was informed “off the record”, the Virgin Megastore were “pressured” to remove from public display, most of its stock and had great restrictions in importing books. Some details were provided but they are not necessary to illustrate the sadness of this reality. Basically what happened was that Virgin Megastore was not thrown at the boiling water from its start, instead they were put in room temperature water and the heat was gradually turned on until it reached its boiling point.
What is the point to have such shop here in Doha? Perhaps its just one of the so many examples here: we have the brand but not necessarily its contents.
Having the brand here makes it look nice from the distance - from TV commercials, artist’s impressions, virtual realities and amazing websites - and it does contribute to improve Doha’s image and its reputation (dull). But the displaying brands with no contents cannot sustain that image for a long time. People wont buy it because it’s just not there.
What happened to all the campaign “Discover – Achieve – Wonder -Think.”? What’s the point inciting people to self achieve in life, when at the same time, the access to books is restricted?
There is a clear struggle between what Doha wants to show and what it wants to be. There is a struggle between those who command, those who pay and those who work.
For those who command, you may turn the heat on gradually, and frogs here might not feel the gradual increase of the temperature but don’t expect that the outside world will jump into your boiling water forever!
I used to buy most of my books either when I travel, or online (mostly amazon.com)...
Virgin was a great addition to the gloomy selection of books available in Qatar, if it ceases to do that, It would be a memory. I can still get the books that I want.
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...Nic, alright, no problem, you can order it online as well. Qatar Customs lets it in.
..To answer your question about Doha Capital of Arab Culture 2010:
http://www.qatartourism.gov.qa/pillars/index/1/culture/352
http://www.doha2010.com.qa/
....Nic, yes, it's Sadat's Autobiography. Btw, I have an extra clean copy of this book. I could arrange to have someone drop it off to you, when it's ready. Only if you wish.
genesis, I get your hint. Regardless, it should've stayed pure Qatari for at least the first month.
Happy Happy,
Thank you, that's very kind of you.
I pass your offer to someone else here who might want to read it. As I said, I do go often to Europe and I'll definitely have a look at it on a next opportunity.
I know Sadat was a great charismatic leader and I am curious to read his own words.
just ignore it! Heheheheheh! Good morning guys! Time for lunch!
Speaking of Doha 2010 events, the only event that represented the local heritage was the Qatar marine festival . Which have featured last week the pearl diving event
Www.draidia.com/qmf/qm.Html
Still, how many of the local public ( whether qataris or expats) have Attended those events?
Other countries cultural weeks (in particular the Egyptian or Moroccan weeks) were a success among the local community( in particular Arab intellects)
I do agree with you that so far many elements are missing from those event as a whole. Such events takes place all year round in major arab cities like Cairo or beirut.
In my opinion, the cultural festival conducted every march the past few years were more organized & diverse culturally.
Doha 2010 seems to appeal to certain audience only , many Qatari writers have highlighted that in their columns.
Yet, none of the organizers seems to pay attention. And they keep repeating that events are stretched on yearly quarter bases, and the best cultural events are yet to come in the last quarter(OCT-DEC)
Let's wait and see ;)
No, that part of your opinion is fine and absolutely related to the thread and I can respect it.
I don't think novels are the books that was targeted.it was non-fictional books with certain political agendas, many Liberal Arab philosophy books, certain Islamic sects ideology books, some middle east reforms books and the most criticized were art books with nude Sculptures
During the last book fair in january, many Qatari intellects were shocked that many Arabic books were withdrawn from the book fair shelves to make place for more Islamic and children books! The books that were withdrawn are for highly respected publishing houses in Beirut & Cairo that specialized in liberal & reformist books from intellects that have frequently been featured in Aljazeera news channel!
Since there is no certain law on media censorship here, all what i written are assumption and prediction by intellects of the current status cue
Apparently the PTB recently try to make a balance between liberals & conservatives in the main local sociological scene. By now, many of you are aware that not much Qataris are fond of globalization or multiculturalism
With QF establishing a publishing house and under constructing a huge public library that's digitally connected to the library of congress, one can only assume that the literary scene is enriching
I think only with the raise of more liberal thinking locals would the public accept multiculturalism , which will lead to less restriction on literature
I said, censorship exist in all countries (and not on literature only). Only the tolerance that differs. Now, unless you believe that Qatar is as democratic as the west, then maybe, we should be really be surprised that no more books on Virgin's book shelf!
Now, if this is still out of context as you perceived, I excuse myself!
Try the I Spy Bookshop in City Center
flor, correct me if I'm wrong, but are we discussing whether we are in the right place or wrong place to live? If not can you please take your suggestions regarding that matter to another related thread.
We are discussing about censorship of literature in Qatar. Appreciate posts related to the matter.
how many members QL have? How many expats are here in Doha alone? How many Virgin stores are here? How many books are we talking about? Now, I don't know how will you label such "release" of frustration by the OP.
My thoughts are clear, such thing doesn't surprise me anymore! My almost three years here have given me what to expect and what not to expect? I just count my blessing and try to turn right wrong thing I might have intentionally or unintentionally committed. That's life here in ME! If you expect something else, maybe you are in a wrong place? IMHO only!
Happy Happy,
That his autobiography, isn't it?
I'll have a look at it on next trip to Europe.
...genesis, I would've wanted to even re-run and re-perform the events of the National Day week. It was awesome.
As for the Egyptian week, QTEL kept inviting me a hundred times over, although I wasn't in Doha (lol). All of the Egyptian community and other nationalities in Qatar attended. The press allocated two huge pages tackling it, two days in-a-row. We rock you know.....:))
But that’s not QATAR!
we also should not ignore the fact about the nationality that’s dominating PR &the cultural scene in the country recently :X
Gosh.. what an awful metaphor is this Frogie story! it made me thrilled!
....Nic, great. I'm now re-reading Anwar Alsadat's Biography "In Search of Identity". I rarely ever read any book twice. The man is a genius.
Happy Happy,
No, I am actually reading a novel by Alaa-Al-Aswany.
....Nic, sorry, but cannot pass this without asking, are you reading a novel or a book on Egypt in the 90s?
I have read both parts of Dr. Galal Amin's "Whatever (Else) Happened to the Egyptians?". Is that what you're reading now?
Happy Happy,
In that hopeless scenario, I would call it less terrible ;)
If you ask me not to question your rights to post in a forum, why don't you extend the common courtesy to others as well, flor? The rest of this call this a discussion and we are just discussing how this effects us.
I don't see anyone here whining or ranting as you put it to change the country's laws, and I don't see how that happen when there are no laws regarding censorship put out in the first place. If there is nothing positive you can add to this discussion then feel free to take your non-related posts to another related thread.
Thanks Deepb!
I just wanted to add that my critical reviews do not seek any personal benefit. In spite of being a heavy reader, I personally don’t need to buy any books in Qatar; I am not from here, I won’t be here for a long time and meanwhile I am lucky enough to travel out of Qatar quite often.
I am also not expecting that there will be changes in any time soon. The main reason I write critical reviews is to engage people in the debate as debate will eventually lead to changes even if it’s in a few generations from now.
...Nic, I was impressed on the National Day more than on the Inauguration of the Cultural Year. I would have hoped it was at least as informative and proud about Qatar. The eyes of the (Arab) world were on Doha, it should've seized the Day. In my opinion, it hasn't even lived up to "Showy" Qatar's standards.
So, Virgin is good I say..:)
we are in a forum, and in as much as all of us are allowed to talk, don't question my intention. As I said, we are free to whine and rant but changing this country the way we want it to be, not in our times!
Censorship exist in all countries, only the tolerance is the difference as dictated by each country's laws. And it depends on who rules or who is running the government. Either we choose a country or adapt to a certain rules, whether we like it or not! Unless you believe that Qatar is a democratic country?
It was easier back in the day before digital and internet to restrict a populations reading material, but now its like .......... in the wind. The people responsible are only going to get wet...
Happy Happy,
What Cultural Year?! O_o (I am being sarcastic)
That is sad, I just didnt know about it, otherwise I would have exposed it here!
banning CDs, banning books, holy soldiers, nazi looks...
at Flor, I don't see anyone ranting and whining as you put it, I see people ingaged in debate and healthy conversation thru a blog, so whats your problem mate?
It might not be the novels that are being targeted but they are definitely disappearing on mass. I think they have one book per shelf at Virgin now.
Happy Happy,
By the way I am currently reading an Egyptian’s novel about Cairo's society in the 90's (bought it overseas). There too, as you know better than me, there is a long way to go... but I'll leave my critical reviews for Cairo Living ;)
flor1212,
you're mixing apples with potatoes, sir!
flor, this is a public forum last I checked. People are allowed to voice their opinions if you don't agree with it or not. I do not see anyone whining or ranting over here other than you.
If your happy with everything the way it is, then you are either a very happy person who has found the key to eternal happiness or you are a hypocrite who doesn't like others asking for something you have been denied.
As genesis has put down, the censorship has been a lot more dramatic on Arabic literature than English literature. So we are definitely getting a better deal than the locals in this regard.
Nic, there are some local youths who are opposed to all this and do protest. But their protests are pushed down as well. We can expect progress in the coming few generations, but not in time for us to enjoy it.
Thanks Genesis, for the insight.
....Nic, I don't want to sound mean, but what do you expect from a country that started its Cultural Year by importing another country's traditions, troupes, music, and culture?
This is when I was in a serious shock and disappointment. I thought Qatar intellects and think-tanks along with the huge budget that should have been allocated to this event, would write a page in history this year.
I'm disappointed at this one, but not at Jarir and Virgin.
profession. And maybe you are in a wrong place. It's your choice to come here and you want this place to be what you would like it to be? The world is so modern now that the advances in technology will not anymore hinder any information from all corners of the world. Don't you think the local government does not know it? Of course they do but they chose the way they want to run this country. You can whine and make rants, but will it make a difference? If Virgin is not happy the way they are "censored", they can always close shop and find more ideal places! IMHO!
Happy Happy,
I might be critical (is that a sin?) but I am not shocked or saddened.
On the other hand, judging from your great input, you seem to be overjoyed as usual ;)
....I'm very grateful to have 2 main outlets for books in Qatar, and book fairs here and there.
Seriously, I wouldn't have any higher or any expectations at all, despite of the ongoing propaganda. Heavy-handed censorship is realistically anticipated as well.
Deepb,
I agree with you but I also believe that exposing the issue (either its censorship, hypocrisy or both) might improve something in the very very very long run.
.....Nic, I'm surprised you're shocked, saddened, or being critical...:))
Pick your choice.
Well, they don't really want the books from Virgin Megastore, they just wanted the electronics, that they used to have to go to US to purchase from previously. The facade and hypocrisy is something I have got used to in my 25 years in Qatar. It's not that difficult to see through their facades for people staying locally. The progressive picture is only painted to the international media, and not really meant for the already present expatriates.
Happy Happy,
Did I say I was surprised?
;)
...Nic, I'm surprised you're surprised.
well said Nic couldn't have put it any better myself!! And this is a country which wants to host the WC....bahaha
flor1212,
It appears that you were educated to obey and remain silent.
Progress does not take place with such attitude, have you noticed that?
;)
Deepb,
I have nothing against what they want for themselves. I might not agree with it but I respect it.
What I criticize is the need to show the world what one is not and doesn't want to be?
Why display fake facades of something you don’t embrace?
Why allow foreigner "corruptive" brands settle in Qatar? Why allow Virgin Megastore in, when its well known that they are a liberal brand?!
Why not protect the culture with assertive and clear policies instead of cherry picking and inconsistent policies?
That's all we are debating here, I believe.
it will always be a never-ending complaint. Their country, their rules. Their country, their culture. What is next to complain?
Nic, unfortunately in the many discussions with Qataris I have had, the local sentiment has been made very clear. They respect our contribution to their society but we are guests no matter how long we have been here. And they want improvements on their own way. They want more choices in shopping and facilities available outside, but they do not want their culture to be affected vastly. Not many are happy at the shift where English has become a more used language than Arabic in official matters and promoting English books is the least of their concern.
"novels as a means of increasing knowledge. Now thats something."
A statement made by someone who's obviously never read a novel in their life.
s_isale,
We are not talking about novels only!
But in any case, novels and many other type of books, previously available at Virgin Megastore, contribute to widen your horizons!
Can you please tell me how you were able to manage to get ebooks? I don't have a US credit card or billing address and therein lies my problem- if you have a solution, I would be very grateul to hear it!!
novels as a means of increasing knowledge. Now thats something.
flor1212,
It’s not that some are surprised with the country, it’s just that some believe that exposing weaknesses, might be the first step for improvement.
They're bringing in a Borders? What are they going to be allowed to sell? Colouring books?
all discussions about flotilla thing, here now, some are complaining about books at Virgin Store? Wow, really amazing Qatar!
Genesis,
As you’ll agree with me, one thing is being able to satisfy our intellect needs by bypassing the local authorities, the other thing is restricting the general public from a free access to knowledge.
I wonder how Qatar will get where they aim, with these policies.
Will Borders become another frog in the boiling water?
It’s a matter of time and it will become world news.
some (and I mean some) are still surprise with this country! Does surprises makes life more challenging?
The literature scene in doha is puzzling. although 2010 has marked Doha as the capital of Arab culture,no significant local event is acheived nor worth mentioning in the region scale. Except for the establishment of the Bloomsburry Qatar Foundation publishing, which have not so far contributed much to the local literary scene nor does it appeal To the locals.
Qatari intellects were shocked last week with the decision to withdraw the planned location of the newly established Qatari writers association from the new under construction "Qatar cultural village" in west bay. Many wondered, whether their location was withdrawn to make place for more restaurants and shesha houses as it appear that's the only establishments open there so far.
I'm not really surprised by Virgin recent revamp, as there were many articles in local newspaper and Popular local Internet forum Qatarshares that have criticized the books sold there as it's against our norms! And many requested that officials at the ministry of culture to monitor the books imported into the country
In the meantime , it was announced also recently that Borders book shop will soon has a
Qatar branch.
I guess it's not an easy task on officials to balance between globalizing the
Local cultrual scene through multiculturalism while still preserving the local norms and silencing disgruntled conservatives
happygolucky,
Some care about Qatar and don’t remain blindly passive and submissive. Exposing areas for improvement is in no means dictating or imposing changes!
That's the choice we are left with genesis. But I do miss keeping a hardcover book collection in display and being able to borrow books from my friends collection or lending them some from my collection. Plus, no matter how easy and comparable it might be reading on e-book device, burning through a paperback novel in the night flipping pages waiting for a dramatic end is a joy it can't compare to.
But we have to make some adjustments in life and for losing something I believe we get something extra. I enjoy the peace and safety offered in Qatar compared to other places.
Well who needs virgin while you can shop online through iBook and have uncensored books uploaded in your iPad within few seconds ;)
What about all the expats who DO read? I used to enjoy browsing in and buying books at Virgin. Not anymore.
Nic....some instead of getting numbed by noticing the void, just find other ways and means to fulfill that void and live happily....I am one of them...for me life is very simple...I dont want all the places to be a replica of each other...I just lose the fun and challenge to live then...and I never intend to make things change to how I want them to be when I also say I am a guest...a guest doesn't dictate terms, nor imposes his likes and dislikes...either he adjusts and accepts considering it as momentary or doesn't return.
s_isale that is what I try to do. Sadly I can go through a 600 page book in a week, so I can't possibly bring enough books to last a year unless I want to pay hundreds of dollars in overweight charges.
Most things here don't bother me happy, that's why I've been here 4 years and intend to stay longer. I like living in a place that challenges me. However I do miss books. I have this crazy need to learn and enrich myself through literature.
You can still get e-books on a kindle or sony reader and read over here. Although the feeling of going through a bookstore and finding something that you wouldn't have thought off to read before is something you will miss. I remember when in my early college days I found the Anne Rice series by mistake in a used books store and read the whole series one by one.
the next time you go for vacation bring enough books to last a year
happygolucky,
Some are too numbed to notice the void, some don't know any better and others get fulfilled elsewhere by leaving the country on a regular basis.
What doesnt bother you here Olive, may I know.
As regards people who read, they dont crib, they just find ways and means...and that applies to everything else.
Sorry happy, but the lack of books is something that really bothers me here. Obviously people who don't read wouldn't notice that lack in their lives.
I dont know how some of you guys live day to day when you find fault, feel sad etc etc with each and everything here...it would be a real torture.
Hard to take the computer to the gym with me, or to put it in my purse to read at lunch.
s_isale,
That makes things even sadder - people here don’t read!
Guys. I stopped buying paperbacks new.. search hard enough in Google for a new book, and you can download it for free..
why sad day for Qatar? Majority of the locals here dont read those books anyway.
:( I remember how excited we all were when Virgin was opening. Guess I'll have to bring a second suitcase with me when I go home to Canada this summer just to bring books back.
Its a sad day for Qatar
Olive,
The way it looked yesterday, soon you'll be lucky if you can find a single book :(
postmodernman,
From a conversation we had yesterday on that matter, we were informed that in Jarir's case it is even worse as its contents are also conditioned by its head office, which is located in Saudi!
In Jarir's case you get double censorship!
I've been told the same thing off the record Nic. Really sad, I used to love going to Virgin every couple of weeks and would leave with no less then 5 books at any given time, now I'm lucky to find 1 decent book every few months. :(
while I don't know if Jarir bookstore is facing the same pressures, the book stock on their shelves seems pretty poor as well lately. When I was there a month ago, they had so few books, they had two and three year old Guinness Book of World Records on the shelf, i assume to fill the space.
My friends and I have resorted to ebooks via Kindle or Sony, or using Amazon for print materials. It's the only way to get good reading material in Doha.